Commissioner Kevin Willis

Born and raised in Effingham, Kevin is the second son of Herman and the late Patsy Willis. Kevin married wife Dena in 1987; father of three and grandfather of 7. Kevin’s roots and family run deep in our town.

Kevin’s career of success and service has blue-collar beginnings. As an employee of World Color Press, Kevin displayed early on the work ethic that defines his career.

In 1992, after pursuing a curriculum of Criminal Justice at Lakeland College, Kevin’s role as a public servant began with his first position in the Effingham Police Department. A bright mind and a keen eye for detail made him an ideal investigator.

Kevin began his transition into a leadership role with a promotion to Corporal/Assistant Shift Commander in 2003; and promoted again in 2008 to Sergeant/Shift Commander. He remained in this role until his retirement in 2013 after 21 years of exemplary community service.

Currently Kevin is employed as Security Director for J&J Ventures Gaming, an important role with a successful and growing local company.

Kevin understands the needs and pressures on small businessmen. Kevin and Dena have been very successful in the fitness industry, starting their first family business in 1994. Hard work and determination have grown their enterprise into four fitness centers; in Greenville, Shelbyville, St. Joseph, and Watseka.

Currently, as co-owner of Willis Detective Agency, Kevin continues to exercise his investigative skills as a licensed Private Detective and Security Contractor with the Department of Professional Regulation.

Kids, grand kids, golf and home-life provide the solid base for a well-rounded life of service and community commitment.